More Services to Go in Norfolk

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County Council jobs and services could be under threat by Government grant cuts of over ten million pounds.

The Government have asked Norfolk County Council to deliver the savings straight away, even though they are already three months into the financial year.

Council Leader Daniel Cox said this will mean urgent action: “We could not have anticipated the possibility of in-year cuts when we set our Budget in February, though given the dire state of the country’s finances it is not surprising the Coalition Government felt compelled to withdraw some previously promised funding.”

The withdrawal of the grant money will come from support services to children, travel and transport and community services, totalling £10.09m.

Mr Cox said although there’s been no time to consult with the public, the County Council has a strong track record of efficient financial management.

He said: “These cuts are painful. I wish we did not have to make them, but we do. Rather than focusing on cuts, we will look even more creatively at how we can better use the budgets we will continue to have. I am confident that the radical thinking necessary can bear positive fruit for Norfolk public services in the future.”

So what could be going?

Funding could be halved for the Connexions service. Approximately 65 jobs will be cut.

£316,500 loss in grants awarded via the Norfolk Youth Fund.

£434,000 reduction in grants for school holiday activities for young people.

The deferral of approximately 30 safety schemes and public transport improvements, such as new footways or pedestrian safety refuges.